Now you will no longer be able to make UPI payments by manually entering your UPI ID or mobile number in most cases.
To make digital payments faster and more secure, the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has introduced a major change.
Until now, while making online payments, users had to type their UPI ID or mobile number manually. This method was known as “UPI Collect.”
NPCI has decided to discontinue this method in most places. This change was scheduled to come into effect from 28 February 2026.
Instead of typing details manually, users will now see options to directly click on the payment app icon or scan a QR code. This new system is expected to make payments easier, quicker, and more secure.
What is UPI Collect?
UPI Collect was an online payment method where the buyer manually entered their UPI ID or mobile number (if it was linked as the UPI ID).
After entering the details:
The app or website sent a payment request to the user’s payment app.
The user received a notification in their payment app.
The user then entered their UPI PIN to complete the payment.
It was called “UPI Collect” because the receiving app or website sent a request to collect money from the user’s payment app.
How Will You Make Payments Now?
From 28 February 2026, most websites and apps will provide:
A UPI app icon, or
A QR code
If you click on the app icon, your payment app will open directly on your phone, allowing you to approve the payment easily.
If you choose the QR code option, a QR code will appear on the screen. You can scan it using your payment app and complete the payment securely.
This new method removes the need to manually type your UPI ID or mobile number in most cases.
Where Will the Old Method Still Work?
The UPI Collect method will not be completely stopped. It will still be used in certain situations:
1. Stock Market and IPO Payments
If you are investing in the stock market or applying for an IPO, you will still need to enter your UPI ID or mobile number manually.
2. Apple and iPhone Users
If you make a purchase through a mobile app or browser on an iPhone or any iOS device, the old system may still be available.
3. Managing Existing Auto-Payments
If you have already set up automatic payments (auto-debit), you will need to manually enter your UPI ID or mobile number to modify or stop them.
4. International Payments
If you are making payments to an international website or a business outside your country, the UPI Collect method will continue to work.
